As far as celebrity fragrances go – Rhianna’s have received a fair bit of critical acclaim. Her fourth fragrance Rouge was released last year. It is a departure from her previous fragrances in terms of packaging. Gone is the upside down stiletto heel, replaced with a more conventional square bottle with a large textured lid. The texture on the box and the lid remind me of leather effect nail varnishes and both have the ever popular rose gold tone to complement the textured finish.
Despite the lemon blossom and bergamot at the top of the fragrance, on me this is a very strong patchouli and plum blend. I find this fragrance to be quite heady – not because of the jasmine and rose, but rather the sandalwood, amber and vanilla in the base. On me this fragrance is bottom heavy from about thirty minutes onwards. It lasts really well on the skin – eight hours later I still have the fragrance on the skin.
I am really on the fence about this fragrance. I like the fragrance during the first thirty minutes, when the citrus notes are still on my skin, then for the next six hours, as the middle and base notes come through, I am not a fan. However the last ninety minutes on my skin, I like the fragrance again. The patchouli is minimised and the powdery musk comes through. If you are a citrus or floral fan, this is one to sample before you buy. If you love a fruity and or musky fragrance, this may be one for you.
Rouge by Rhianna is available from a variety of stockists and the 75ml EDP retails for £33.00
PR Sample